If you’re caring for a parent—or even both parents—facing memory loss, you’re likely asking yourself one of the hardest questions: Is it time to consider memory care?
Whether your loved one is showing signs of dementia or has already been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, knowing when and how to make the move can feel overwhelming.
This guide is here to help you navigate the emotional and practical steps of transitioning someone you love into memory care—whether it’s your mom, dad, both, or your spouse.
How to move a parent to memory care: starting the conversation
We often hear this question from overwhelmed caregivers: “How do I even start the conversation about memory care with my mom or dad?” The short answer: gently, consistently, and with love.
The long answer: use a consistent message or “script” that keeps the conversation reassuring and straightforward. Memory loss can make change difficult, and too many voices or shifting explanations can create confusion. Instead, try something like:
“This is a place where you’ll be safe, where people understand what you need, and where you’ll be cared for.”
At The Kensington Reston, we encourage families to focus on safety, comfort, and connection when discussing the move, not loss or decline. We’re not just a senior living community—we’re a warm, active, and loving home, where your loved one can truly thrive.
Consider a soft approach: introducing The Kensington Club
The Kensington Club is our early memory care program for new and current assisted living residents with mild cognitive impairment or early dementia.
The K Club allows families to ease their loved one into our memory care community without the pressure of a major life change overnight.
Your parent can attend a few times a week, begin forming connections, engage in cognitive activities, and enjoy the comforts of our environment, without making a long-term commitment upfront.
This gentle transition approach can make the eventual move to full-time memory care feel more like a natural next step rather than a sudden shift.
Signs it’s time to consider memory care
Still wondering if now is the right time to begin the search?
If any of these warning signs of memory loss resonate, it may be time to look into options that provide 24/7 support, therapeutic activities, and a team trained in dementia care—like the one at The Kensington Reston.
Signs your loved one may benefit from memory care:
- Worsening memory loss that disrupts daily activities
- Confusion with time or place
- Increased agitation, anxiety, or withdrawal
- Difficulty with hygiene, meals, or medication management
- Your own burnout as a caregiver
Spring forward: How memory care supports renewal
You might be surprised at just how full and joyful life can be in memory care, especially in a setting like ours. And the best part? No need to worry about moving again. As your loved one’s care needs evolve, they can stay with us, surrounded by familiar faces and routines.
At The Kensington Reston, we have three specialized memory care neighborhoods—The K Club for early-stage memory loss, Connections for early to mid-stage, and Haven for late-stage. These neighborhoods offer:
- All-day dining with delicious, brain-healthy meals
- Customized activities designed for cognitive engagement and purpose
- Secure indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy the beauty of spring
- Medication and wellness support with on-site clinical professionals
- Family-style living with private suites and personalized touches
Preparing for the transition into memory care
Once you’ve decided to move forward with memory care, the logistics can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone.
1. Get the family on the same page
Before talking to your parent, meet with siblings or close relatives to align on the best approach. Unified support is key to reducing confusion.
2. Tour communities together
Let us show you around! Schedule a tour at The Kensington Reston, meet our care team, and ask questions about daily life, medical support, and amenities. Seeing our new, loving environment firsthand can ease fears for both you and your loved one.
3. Personalize their space
Familiar objects go a long way. Bring favorite blankets, photos, books, and keepsakes to help their new space feel like home. Our team will help you arrange everything in a comforting and familiar way.
4. Plan a visitation schedule
Establish a consistent visit routine so your parent knows they’re not being “left behind.” Regular presence from family helps create emotional safety.
5. Let us help
Our team is here to walk alongside you every step of the way. From move-in support to emotional guidance, we treat your family like our own.
What makes The Kensington Reston different?
Not all memory care communities are created equal. At The Kensington Reston, we go beyond the basics.
Here’s what makes our memory care exceptional:
- Relationship-based care – Our team members get to know your loved one’s life story, preferences, and personality.
- All-day purposeful activities – From art to music to gardening, we offer a full calendar of events tailored to each resident’s cognitive level.
- On-site medical team – Licensed nurses are available around the clock for medication management and clinical oversight.
- Peace of mind for caregivers – Knowing your parent is safe, engaged, and loved allows you to step back from caregiving and return to simply being their child again.
Expert memory care in Reston, Virginia—personalized for every resident’s needs
Located in the heart of Reston, Virginia, just outside of Washington, D.C., The Kensington Reston is an upscale community built to support families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia with warmth, expertise, and dignity.
Whether helping one parent transition or seeking a place where both parents can move in together, our memory care neighborhoods are designed to adapt to changing needs, so your loved ones never have to relocate again.
From personalized care plans and all-day dining to life enrichment programs, rehabilitation services, and meaningful daily connections, we create a true home that supports both residents and their families.
Contact The Kensington Reston today to learn more, schedule a tour, or ask about The Kensington Club—our day program designed to gently ease loved ones into memory care when the time feels right. We’re here to help you take the next step confidently and carefully.